WEDNESDAY, OKTOBER 29, 2014
KOTA KINABALU - By improving productivity, diversification and quality to penetrate international markets and garner stronger returns, the local handicraft industry holds great potential and can be further developed.
Deputy Tourism, Culture and Environment Minister Datuk Pang Yuk Ming said the government recognises the art and craftmanship of local artists and continues to provide a variety of promotional programmes to help them sell their handicraft.
"The booming handicraft industry signals strong prospects for local artists with total handicraft sales increasing nearly 78 percent from RM31.55 million in 2012 to RM56.183 in 2013," he said adding that latest figures as of October already stood at RM45.60 million.
"We have some amazing local talent in producing an increasing range of handicraft, not to mention the quality has improved significantly," he said.
The11-day handicraft exhibition gathers local talent from throughout the country to showcase their impressive range of handwoven handicraft from intricatelyhan
d-woven rattan, baskets, ethnic bead jewellery, local batik which continues to draw shoppers, as well as domestic and international tourist alike.
"This is a great platform for local artists to gain access for local artists to sell their works, promote their craft and gain access to bigger markets,"said Pang. Furthermore, he said the exhibition would also feature various cultural performances including a Batik Fashion showcasing Sabahan art and traditions for visitors.
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